MEng (Hons) Civil and Coastal Engineering

Study at one of the world's leading centres for coastal engineering research for a professionally accredited civil and coastal engineering degree. Explore a wide range of topics from storms, climate change and coastal defence, to structural design, hydraulics and geotechnics. This course equips you with important skills increasingly in demand both in the UK and internationally, and prepares you for life as a civil and coastal engineer.

You will distinguish yourself professionally with an accredited degree. You will get your career off to a flying start by spending an optional work placement year working as a paid student engineer – a great opportunity to further your knowledge and make important industry contacts. You’ll keep pace with the ever-changing discoveries, insights and thinking in the subject. 2018 National Student Survey: 100% of respondents to the survey said they were satisfied with the quality of their degree.*

Up to £1,000. Students are automatically paid £500/£250 for an A / B in Mathematics A level and/or one further sum of £500/£250 for an A / B in a relevant science subject or in A level Geography. This is awarded to home/EU applicants who put us as their firm choice before the 1 August 2019. The scholarship is paid during the first semester of the first year.

There are additional prizes and awards to reward high achievement in later years of the degree.

Get your career off to a flying start by spending an optional work placement year working as a paid student engineer – a great opportunity to further your knowledge and make important industry contacts.

Study at one of the world’s leading centres for coastal engineering research – you’ll keep pace with the ever-changing discoveries, insights and thinking in the subject.

Benefit from our new £19 million Marine Building, which offers facilities for teaching water and coastal engineering. Our design project module in coastal engineering equips you to specialise in design or flood risk management and port engineering.

Draw on our teaching staff of professionally qualified experts with relevant experience from the civil engineering industry, and researchers with national and international reputations. 90 per cent of our students say our staff are good at explaining things [source: UNISTATS].

Learn a host of design skills from problem solving to sustainable development, as well as acquiring the critical thinking that plays a key role in the work of a civil engineer, including interpreting and analysing data.

Increase your employability by taking an HSE-recognised diving qualification as part of your course, allowing you to work professionally in underwater technology.

Develop your professional skills including communication, self-management, team working and leadership, all vital in obtaining graduate employment and a rewarding career.

Join our extensive network of Chartered Civil Engineers who have graduated from Plymouth University and now work at all levels in the industry both nationally and internationally.

Course details

Year 1

In the first year, you’ll be introduced to the role of the professional civil engineer – grounded in an understanding of the application of mathematics in engineering and the behaviour of civil engineering structures. Working in both lab and field, you’ll develop skills in surveying, computer aided design and the properties of engineering materials. We’ll begin your professional development through site visits, group-based design activity and visiting industry speakers.

Core modules

BPIE114 Stage 1 Civils Placement Preparation

This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the
third year of their programme. It is designed to assist students in their search for a
placement and in their preparation for the placement itself.

CIVL103 Civil Engineering Practice

This module introduces and develops students¿ understanding of the skillset, competencies and professional responsibilities required of civil engineering practice. It includes site visits, practical exercises, and talks from practising professional engineers reflecting on their experience in industry. The module also includes `hands on¿ training in Computer Aided Design (CAD).

CIVL104 Introduction to Hydraulics and Geotechnics

This module introduces two important technical subjects in Civil Engineering: Hydraulics and Geotechnics. Hydraulics considers fundamental concepts of hydrostatics and hydrodynamics. Geotechnics considers the ground in the context of Civil Engineering. The module includes field trips to local sites of Geological interest.

MATH187 Engineering Mathematics

The module provides students with a number of fundamental mathematical skills and techniques which are essential for the analysis of engineering problems.

MATS123 Materials for Civil Engineering and Construction

This module will enable students to develop an understanding of the origins and properties of materials commonly used by the civil engineering industry. Students will be engaged in the practical testing of materials in order to judge their relative strengths and weaknesses. Health and safety matters associated with each of the materials will also be highlighted.

STAD117 Structural Analysis and Design I

This Module equips student with basic and essential structural analysis and design skills that are key requirements for Civil and Structural Engineering disciplines. This module also introduces students to practical applications of these concepts using hand calculations, laboratory and computer software tools to enhance their deeper understanding.

SURV100 Civil Engineering Surveying

This module covers basic land, site and building surveying methods that are commonly used in the construction industry. It includes principles such as survey control networks and setting out, and the associated calculations. Students will undertake practical use of instruments such as an automatic level and `total station'. There is also an introduction to Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and highway alignments.

Year 2

Explore the core disciplines of civil engineering, from structural analysis and design to hydraulic engineering through lectures, practical activities, site visits and a field course. We’ll introduce you to some specialist areas of the industry, including coastal engineering and water management – with the opportunity to take an option module to develop skills in sampling, survey, underwater photography and inspection techniques (for those who have completed the HSE SCUBA diving qualification).

Core modules

BPIE214 Stage 2 Civils Placement Preparation

This module is aimed at students who may be undertaking an industrial placement in the
third year of their programme. It is designed build on the Level 1 module (BPIE111) and to
assist students in their search for a placement and in their preparation for the placement
itself.

CIVL200 Civil Engineering Design and Construction

This module traces the stages of a civil engineering scheme through design and construction. Design stages are covered through work on an integrating project including multiple Civil Engineering elements. Construction stages are covered through treatment of health and safety and construction practice. The continuity between the design and construction stages is emphasised in terms of the requirements of the CDM regulations.

GEEN213 Geotechnical Engineering

This module initially builds on basic Soil Mechanics concepts introduced in the first year via a range of common lab tests.
The concepts of groundwater flow and consolidation will be considered, with associated calculations.
Methods of analysis for estimation of stability and deformation when the ground is loaded will be introduced, with the accompanying concepts of material or load factors.

HYFM232 Hydraulic Coastal Engineering

This module develops hydraulic engineering concepts introduced in the first year, and introduces hydrodynamic concepts required for coastal engineering. Hydraulic engineering material includes predicting flow in pipes and open channels. Coastal engineering topics include study of waves and tides, and their application to coastal engineering. Learning is supported by laboratory work and a site visit.

MATH238 Engineering Analysis

This module builds upon the stage one engineering mathematics module, by introducing students to more advanced mathematical ideas, statistical techniques and numerical methods. The methods and techniques studied are used to solve relevant civil engineering applications, with some emphasis on interpreting the results obtained. Industrially recognised software packages are also used where appropriate.

MGMT222 Construction Management

The aim of this module is to deepen students' knowledge and understanding of commercial aspects of construction management and project planning. In addition the module aims to build practical skills in the use of project planning software and the practical use of codes of conduct that guide appropriate personal behaviour in professional engineering practice.

STAD215 Structural Analysis and Design II

This module extends the theoretical base established by the Stage 1 Structural Analysis and Structural Design modules. It is intended to combine the basic principles of analysis with design to develop an integrated approach to solving problems in Structural Engineering. The module is supported by the use of computer software and laboratory work.

Optional placement year

By taking the opportunity to spend a year in paid professional employment as a student civil engineer, you’ll gain real world experience, industry contacts and the possibility of summer work, sponsorship or a graduate job offer. Our Employability Service will support you in finding a placement and we offer an extensive network of employers across all sectors.

Optional modules

BPIE340 Civil Engineering Related Placement (Generic)

A 48-week period of professional training spent as the third year of a sandwich programme undertaking an approved placement with a suitable company. This provides an opportunity for the student to gain relevant industrial experience to consolidate the first two stages of study. Help to prepare the student for the final stage and employment after graduation.

Year 3

You’ll deepen your understanding of the core technical subjects in civil engineering with a particular emphasis on coastal engineering design - culminating in an industry-focused group design project. You’ll spend much of the year completing a research-based individual project – that focuses on laboratory experiments, computer-aided modelling, or field work linked to our staff’s research and professional interests.

Core modules

COUE318 Coastal Engineering Analysis and Design

Building on the basic elements of Coastal Engineering, this module provides the fundamental understanding of coastal processes (wave mechanics, nearshore hydrodynamics and sediment transport) and coastal structures (design parameters, layout, cross section) required for a coastal engineering project. Emphasis is given to the interactions between coastal structures and processes. Basis for COUE319 design module.

COUE319 Coastal Engineering Design Project

This module comprises of a major group design project focussed on a coastal engineering scheme. It provides experience in the design of a realistic, simulated coastal engineering project. The project is designed as a group project, to mimic a professional practice team.

GEEN313 Geotechnical Engineering 2

Different theories and design methodologies are introduced succinctly at the beginning of each topic, followed by design practice with detailed worked examples and case studies. The emphasis is on introducing students to the latest analysis tools used in practice, and on making them relate to the outcome of different worked examples.

HYFM321 Hydraulic Engineering 2

This module builds upon a fundamental understanding of basic hydraulic theory, to develop knowledge, understanding and ability to use theoretical principles to analyse steady and unsteady hydraulic systems comprising pipes, open channels, hydraulic machines. The module also introduces theory underpinning the use physical hydraulic modelling.

PRCE310 Individual Project

The individual project enables the student to research an approved topic related to civil or coastal engineering. It comprises a critical review of background literature and current knowledge that allows the student to identify a focus for their inquiry. Guided by an academic supervisor, the ensuing investigation comprises theoretical development, experimental and / or computational work, and a final analysis.

Final year

In your final year, you'll extend your existing skills in geotechnical engineering, hydraulics and computation and information technology. Broaden your knowledge by studying subjects such as modelling marine processes, structural engineering and project management. In preparation for your future career, you’ll focus on the commercial aspects of the civil engineering business through a group-based design project collaborating with other engineering disciplines.

Core modules

COUE506 Port and Harbour Engineering

This module presents the fundamental elements of the layout, design and construction of modern port structures, and provides students with the necessary understanding of the forces and loadings acting of them. The subject combines 3 elements not often found together in engineering: the requirements of a major transport infrastructure, the harsh marine environment, and the design of highly specific structural solutions.

GEEN501 Advanced Geotechnical Engineering

It is expected that students completing this module would be able to (have the option to) pursue a career in geotechnical design, given the level of analysis used (examples include the calculations of the deflection around a tunnel cross section, along a laterally loaded pile or along a combined foundation).

HYFM504 Advanced Hydraulic Engineering

This module investigates the hydraulic engineering factors influencing the computational modelling and management of riverine flood risk. It appraises the relative merits of techniques used in civil engineering practice for flood modelling and for flood risk management, with an emphasis on reliability assessment. The module is supported by the use of computer software and laboratory work.

MATH511 Advanced Engineering Analysis

This module consists of two parts: Advanced IT & Advanced Engineering Analysis. The IT part explores the benefits and limitations of IT in engineering practice. State of the art tools will be introduced and experts from industry will demonstrate practical applications of IT to complex engineering projects. The 2nd part of the module uses a range of numerical methods for the solution of various engineering problems.

MGMT504 Engineering Business Management

In this module students will develop an understanding of business function and process areas and their role in the strategic management of an engineering business.

PRCE513 Interdisciplinary Design

This module enables students to undertake a major project to solve an Interdisciplinary
Design Problem. Students, working in groups will select and implement a design project from
initial concept to a fully documented, planned, and costed proposal for potential
stakeholders. Students are expected to address a broad spectrum of design outcomes
(infrastructure, structures, integrated systems etc).

Every undergraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the course aims, the course structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification represents the latest course structure and may be subject to change:

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

BTEC QCF Level 3 or RQF Extended Diploma in Engineering (equivalent to 3 GCE A levels): BTEC accepted in combination in combination with an A level. BTEC DDD (to include all Maths units with Distinction) plus Grade C in A Level Maths (Core Maths not accepted).

All Access courses: not accepted for MEng, unless the applicant has additional qualifications or experience. Please refer to our BEng course pages and contact a member of the Undergraduate Admission team on 01752 585858 / ug-admissions@plymouth.ac.uk

International Baccalaureate: 30-32 overall to include 5 at Higher Level Maths and a second relevant subject.

For a full list of all acceptable qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Please note: We understand that many applicants remain anxious about meeting the exact terms of our standard conditional offers. We will look again at your application and revise our offer for those applicants who we continue to believe are a good match to our courses, once we have the certainty of your actual results in August.

Fees, costs and funding

New Student

2018

2019

Home/EU

£9,250

£9,250

International

£13,000

£13,400

Part time (Home/EU)

To be confirmed

To be confirmed

Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per a number of credits.
Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances.

Up to £1,000. Students are automatically paid £500/£250 for an A / B in Mathematics A level and/or one further sum of £500/£250 for an A / B in a relevant science subject or in A level Geography. This is awarded to home/EU applicants who put us as their firm choice before the 1 August 2019. The scholarship is paid during the first semester of the first year.

There are additional prizes and awards to reward high achievement in later years of the degree.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Help & enquiries

University features in film celebrating Plymouth’s engineering prowess

The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) presents Engineering Plymouth. A film celebrating how civil engineers have helped to shape Plymouth over the last 500 years. The film tells the story of Plymouth through its engineering milestones. From laying the foundations for a new town to the introduction of the Great Western Railway and the impressive Royal Albert Bridge. Through the Blitz bombs and on towards new horizons - robotics, artificial intelligence and the use of drone technology - we see how engineers are tackling problems and safeguarding the future for generations to come.

Industry Profile - Paul Santer

Paul Santer, Regional Director of CECA South West, talks to us about why the University of Plymouth is a great institution for students to kick-start their career, in both the civil engineering, and coastal engineering, industries.

Industry profile - Jon Benton

Jon Benton, Regional Director for Dawnus Construction, talks us through his time as a Plymouth student, as well as employability prospects as a University of Plymouth engineering graduate.

Work placements

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A placement year will give you the opportunity to experience working life, and can lead to a job offer upon graduation

Harriette Scowen - MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering graduate

I was encouraged to take the industrial placement year...Now here I am, four years later as a graduate with a First Class MEng (Hons) Civil Engineering degree.

After her industrial placement with AECOM, Harriette was offered sponsorship and a full-time graduate position after the completion of her studies.

What’s the difference between MEng and BEng?

MEng (Hons): Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on
behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered
Engineer.

BEng (Hons): Accredited by the professional engineering institutions on
behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated
Engineer and partly meeting the academic requirement for registration as a
Chartered Engineer.